Project Detail

Breaking the Code

Name: Breaking the Code
Director: Herbert Wise
Released: 1998
Duration: 90 mins

Synopsis

'Breaking the Code' tells the story of the mathematical genius, Alan Turing who, seconded to top secret Bletchley Park during World War II, designed the first computer, which enabled the Allies to crack the German Enigma code and, some would argue, win the war. On Churchill's instructions, Turing was given all the resources he required - and his personal behaviour was tolerated. Turing was a practising homosexual at a time when it was illegal.

At Bletchley, Turing's genius was recognised immediately - as perhaps were his sexual predilections. While discussing the practical applications of his scientific research, Turing speaks what is perhaps the central line of the film: 'I have always been willing - indeed eager - to accept moral responsibility for what I do'. It was that uncompromising stance, plus his unworldly genius which was Turing's strength in scientific research, but his personal undoing.

After the war, Turing continued research, but became progressively entangled in the law after voluntarily reporting a burglary to the police. When asked whom he suspects, Turing suggests a casual male lover. Surprisingly, he confesses to his homosexuality - it was illegal - and is charged. Later, Turing goes on holiday to Corfu and picks up a young Greek boy. Shortly afterwards, Turing commits suicide.

Summarised as baldly as this, 'Breaking The Code' sounds rather bleak: it is not. It is frequently funny, always compassionate and provides real insight into the dilemmas and problems homosexuality in a genius presents; not just to Turing, but to his family and professional colleagues.

Details

Year: 1998
Type of project: Features
Running time: 90 mins
Format: 35mm Fuji
Director: Herbert Wise
Producer: John Drury
Executive Producer: John Drury
Director of Photography: Robin Widgeon BSC
Principal cast: Derek Jacobi, Prunella Scales, Richard Johnson, Amanda Root and Harold Pinter
Screen Writer: Hugh Whitemore

Production Status

Complete

Production Company

The Drama House 1 Hertford Place London W1P 5RS Tel: 020 7388 9140 Fax: 020 7388 3511

Sales Company

Richard Price Primetime Seymour Mews House Seymour Mews London W1H 9PE Tel: 020 7935 9000 Fax: 020 7935 1992

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